NEW YORK — This time, there would be no need for a 20-point quarter from Aaron Nesmith, no need for a miracle bounce off the back of the rim to send the game into overtime, but the Indiana Pacers nonetheless took another game in Madison Square Garden, beating the New York Knicks 114-109.

The Knicks did make a late charge Friday night, eventually getting a Josh Hart layup to close the margin to one, but Jalen Brunson fouled Nesmith on an inbounds play. Nesmith flushed both free throws, and Brunson’s desperation heave in the final seconds clanked off the back of the rim.

Although both teams entered the fourth quarter tied, the Pacers pulled away behind crisp passing, timely shot making and a monster game from forward Pascal Siakam. All five Pacers starters reached double figures in scoring, but it was Siakam’s 39 points on an ultra-efficient 15-of-23 shooting performance that was the centerpiece for the Pacers.

All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton started slowly in the first half, scoring just two points, but he was far more aggressive in the second half in seeking his shot, scoring 12 more after intermission.

And, suddenly, the season for the Knicks hangs in peril. New York must now win four of the next five games to advance, with the next two coming at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Game 3 is Sunday (8 p.m. ET, TNT).

USA TODAY Sports’ had full coverage of Game 2 from Madison Square Garden. Scroll below for a recap and highlights:

Pacers vs. Knicks: Full Game 2 highlights

Final: Pacers 114, Knicks 109

Pascal Siakam scored 39 points – a personal playoff high – to lead the Indiana Pacers to the Game 2 win over the New York Knicks Friday on night at Madison Square Garden. The Pacers forward made 15 of 23 shots, including 3-of-5 3-pointers and 6-of-8 from the free throw line.

3Q: Pacers 81, Knicks 81

NEW YORK — Pascal Siakam, who leads all scorers with 32 points, continued to scorch the Knicks, finishing the third quarter with nine points on timely shots, as the Pacers used a mini-spurt to take a five-point lead midway through the frame. Siakam has the Knicks seemed resigned to play iso ball at times, leading to ill-advised shots.

After a 17-point first half, Jalen Brunson had his first points in the third with a 3-pointer to tie the score at 70 with four minutes remaining. The score was tied seven times in the frame.

But it was Tyrese Haliburton, who only scored two points in the first half, who through the chants of “overrated” got his game going by scoring 10 in the quarter. That complemented and took pressure off Siakam being the No. 1 option. Haliburton also has eight assists and six rebounds. Brunson leads New York with 24 points. 

Halftime: Knicks 52, Pacers 49

NEW YORK — It looks like we’ll have another tight one in the Garden.

After a second quarter that saw eight lead changes, the Knicks are taking a modest three-point lead into the half, 52-49.

Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns lifted New York early in the quarter, scoring all 12 of his points in the period. Jalen Bruson leads all Knicks with 17 points on 6-of-7 shooting. One area where the Knicks have capitalized is second-chance points, with New York holding an early 10-6 edge, led by backup center Mitchell Robinson’s three offensive boards.

One thing to watch for the Pacers: All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, whose game-tying jumper Wednesday sent Game 1 to overtime, scored only two points in the first half, with his first bucket coming at the two-minute mark in the half on a driving floater. He struggled to assert himself offensively and deferred to his teammates, shooting 1-of-6 in the half.

Where Haliburton was quiet, Pacers forward Pascal Siakam carried the team, scoring nine of his 23 points in the second quarter. 

Q1: Knicks 26, Pacers 24

NEW YORK — Indiana picked up where it left off in Game 1, firing on all cylinders, with Pascal Siakam scoring 16 points on 6-of-9 shooting. The Pacers shot out to an early 10-point lead, thanks to 61% shooting as the Knicks defense let the Pacers do their work in the paint. New York’s first 11 points came from OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson. Josh Hart got into early foul trouble, with two fouls in the first seven minutes. The Knicks went on a 10-0 run to tie the score at 19. Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton went scoreless in 10 minutes of action and the Pacers went nearly six minutes without a field goal to end the quarter.

What time is Pacers vs. Knicks?

Game 2 of the NBA Eastern Conference finals between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks is set to start at 8 p.m. ET.

Knicks starting five for Game 2

Pacers starting five for Game 2

John McEnroe visits TNT’s ‘Inside the NBA’

Seven-time major winning tennis star John McEnroe stopped by TNT’s “Inside the NBA” pregame show to promote the upcoming French Open, which will be broadcast on TNT for the first time, starting Sunday.

McEnroe never won the French Open, but finished as a runner-up to Ivan Lendl in 1984. He predicted Ben Shelton and Francis Tiafoe are the Americans with the best shot at winning at Roland Garros this year. 

Like Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith, McEnroe turned to broadcasting after his career. 

“I didn’t know that I was going to be great (on television). In fact, it was the last last thing I wanted to do. At the end of my career, I was like, ‘Oh my God, I’m going to be a commentator. That’s really pathetic.’ I got an opportunity and got some good advice, be yourself.”

Draymond Green, the Golden State Warriors forward who has a history of earning technical fouls for his outbursts on the court, asked McEnroe for advice on how to control his emotions. McEnroe jokingly replied, “The last person you want to talk to is me. It’s hopeless for either one of us.” — Cydney Henderson

All-NBA teams announced: Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic lead first team

Oklahoma City Thunder guard and league Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic lead the 15-member All-NBA team announced Friday.

Joining them on the first team were Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum and Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell.

Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic were unanimous selections from the media panel, as they were last season. Tatum and Antetokounmpo also were unanimous picks.

A panel of 100 global reporters and broadcasters who cover the NBA voted on the squad. The selections are positionless, and each player must have played 65 games in order to be eligible for postseason awards, including the All-NBA team. The voting occurs before the playoffs. See which 15 players made the All-NBA team here.

Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James for GOAT? Where does Jordan’s agent rank LBJ?

Many people believe that the debate over who is the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in the NBA has been settled, with Michael Jordan widely regarded as the top player. While David Falk, Jordan’s longtime agent, agrees that MJ deserves this title, he also shared his thoughts on where LeBron James fits into the conversation.

Falk, who has represented NBA legends such as Jordan, Allen Iverson and Patrick Ewing, shared his insights and advice for aspiring sports industry executives regarding the ever-evolving NBA landscape. He spoke at the Sports Business Journal 4SE conference in Manhattan on May 20. Read where he thinks LeBron ranks here. ‒ Elizabeth Flores

NBA post-combine mock draft: Who improved their standing?

With the NBA draft lottery (hello, Dallas Mavericks) and draft combine over, teams and prospects now turn their attention to pro days and mostly private workouts where even more impressions are made.

Those impressions lead to decisions at the June 25-26 NBA draft. Maybe it makes the difference between getting selected 16th or 13th. See how USA TODAY Sports’ reporters Jeff Zillgitt, Lorenzo Reyes and James Williams predict the draft here.

Pacers vs. Knicks Game 1 viewership big win for TNT, NBA

Indiana’s 138-135 Game 1 overtime victory against New York on Wednesday averaged 6.6 million viewers, making the game the most-watched Eastern Conference final Game 1 since 2018, according to TNT. Viewership peaked at 8.5 million viewers at 11 p.m. ET – right around the time the Pacers made their stunning comeback. The game also won the night in primetime, per TNT, which is a huge victory for the network and the league. — Jeff Zillgitt

Which celebrities and former players are at Madison Square Garden?

Who will show up to Madison Square Garden for Game 2 on Friday? We got you covered. USA TODAY Sports is tracking all the stars in attendance of the arena’s highly-coveted ‘celebrity row.’

Pacers vs. Knicks predictions: Expert picks for Game 2

USA TODAY: Knicks to win Game 2

The USA TODAY staff picks for Game 2 are nearly unanimous, with the Knicks claiming a 6-1 edge.

• Scooby Axson: Knicks
• Cydney Henderson: Knicks
• Lorenzo Reyes: Knicks
• Jordan Mendoza: Knicks
• Heather Tucker: Knicks
• James WIlliams: Knicks
• Jeff Zillgitt: Pacers

Dimers: Knicks 116, Pacers 111

Dimers’ simulations have given the Knicks a 70% chance of winning Game 2, with a five-point margin the most likely outcome.

Covers.com: Knicks even the series

Jason Logan writes: ‘There are several alternate realities in which the Knicks held on to that late lead and won Game 1. It just wasn’t ours. Books have New York installed as 5.5-point favorites for Game 2, and while Indiana is always live, a series split seems more probable considering the Knicks played well for 47 minutes before coming undone on Wednesday. New York wins Game 2.’

ClutchPoints: Pacers 108, Knicks 103

Using the NBA 2K25 video game to simulate Game 2, Massimo Marchiano has the Pacers claiming a five-point win.

Pacers vs. Knicks odds

The New York Knicks are favored to win Game 2, according to BetMGM.

Odds as of Thursday, May 22.

• Spread: Knicks (-5.5)
• Moneyline: Knicks (-235), Nuggets (+190)
• Over/under: 226.5

Pacers vs. Knicks series predictions: Expert picks

Before Game 1, USA TODAY Sports experts made predictions for the Eastern Conference finals winner:

Pacers vs. Knicks series winner

• Jeff Zillgitt: Pacers in six
• Lorenzo Reyes: Knicks in seven
• Heather Tucker: Knicks in seven
• James Williams: Knicks in six
• Jordan Mendoza: Knicks in seven
• Scooby Axson: Knicks in seven
• Cydney Henderson: Knicks in six

How to watch Pacers vs. Knicks: TV, stream

• Time: 8 p.m. ET
• Location: Madison Square Garden
• TV: TNT, truTV
• Stream: Sling TV, Fubo, YouTube TV

Watch Pacers vs. Knicks Game 2 on Fubo

Pacers vs. Knicks Eastern Conference finals schedule

(Pacers lead series 2-0)

• Game 1: Pacers 138, Knicks 135 (OT)
• Game 2: Pacers 114, Knicks 109
• Game 3, May 25: Knicks at Pacers | TNT, 8 p.m.
• Game 4, May 27: Knicks at Pacers | TNT, 8 p.m.
• Game 5, May 29: Pacers at Knicks | TNT, 8 p.m.*
• Game 6, May 31: Knicks at Pacers | TNT, 8 p.m.*
• Game 7, June 2: Pacers at Knicks | TNT, 8 p.m.*

All times Eastern; *-if necessary

A star-studded crowd flocked to Madison Square Garden on Friday night in hopes of watching the New York Knicks bounce back in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals after suffering a 138-135 overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday.

Unfortunately, the highly-coveted ‘celebrity row,’ which included the likes of Russell Wilson, Ciara and Timothée Chalamet, saw New York lose its second straight game at home to drop to 0-2 in the conference finals.

Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals brought out a variety of celebrities, ranging from Knicks legends (Carmelo Anthony, Patrick Ewing and Walt ‘Clyde’ Frazier) to comedians (Tracy Morgan, Dave Chappelle and Larry David), award-winning actors (Jon Hamm, Chalamet and Ben Stiller), Grammy-winning musicians (Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson and Common) and world-class athletes (Suni Lee and CC Sabathia).

Who showed up to Madison Square Garden for Game 2 on Friday? We got you covered. USA TODAY Sports tracked all the stars in attendance:

Celebrities at Knicks game tonight

A who’s who of Hollywood has turned out to Madison Square Garden on Friday. Actor Michael J. Fox, comedian/actor Jim Gaffigan, ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ actress Susie Essman, ‘Miami Vice’ actor Don Johnson, ‘Stranger Things’ actor Caleb McLaughlin, ‘Entourage’ actor Jerry Ferrarra, ‘The Sopranos’ star Edie Falco and ‘Gladiator 2’ star Fred Hechinger are some of the stars in the building.

Russell Wilson, Giants coach Brian Daboll in the building

New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll and his newest quarterback, Russell Wilson, are enjoying the offseason. Daboll and Wilson pulled up to Madison Square Garden to watch their basketball counterparts in action. Musician Ciara, the Grammy-nominated wife of Wilson, was also on hand. The power couple matched in denim.

Timothée Chalamet spotted, again

‘Wonka’ star Timothée Chalamet has the golden ticket — a front row seat for Game 2. Chalamet, a familiar face at Madison Square Garden, often joins the jubilant crowd and Friday was no different. He was seated next to fellow superfan Ben Stiller. Chalamet’s fervent support for the Knicks, as reported by the New York Times, began during his high school days at LaGuardia High School in Manhattan, when he was a budding actor striving to carve his niche. Chalamet’s girlfriend, Kylie Jenner, was not in attendance. The pair had a date night at Game 4 of the Knicks-Celtics Eastern Conference semifinals earlier this month. — Elizabeth Flores

Jon Hamm returns to Garden after exchange with Tyrese Haliburton

‘Mad Men’ actor Jon Hamm is in the building and he’s on his best behavior. If you remember, Hamm made a mad man out of Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton during Game 1 after the actor snagged a loose ball on the sidelines that Haliburton believed he could’ve kept inbounds. Haliburton complained about interference by Hamm, but nothing came of it.

Marv Albert, Bob Costas in the building

A pair of broadcasting legends are in the crowd. Hall of Fame broadcaster Marv Albert, who was known as the ‘voice of the New York Knicks’ from 1967 to 2004, was on hand to watch the team up close and personal. Longtime NBC Sports broadcaster Bob Costas is also in the building.

Busta Rhymes raps ‘New York Knicks Anthem’ at halftime

Busta Rhymes is back for Game 2. The rapper was front and center next to British rapper Skepta. And although the Knicks dropped Game 1 in devastating fashion, Rhymes isn’t feeling down. He dropped a new song, ‘New York Knicks Anthem,’ in the midst of Game 2 to rally the fanbase. He performed the song during halftime in a custom Knicks leather jacket. He rapped: ‘I’m for my New York Knicks. Gotta rep the city for my New York Knicks.”

Knicks legends represent in Madison Square Garden

The champ is here. Walt ‘Clyde’ Frazier led the Knicks to two titles in 1970 and 1973, which remain the franchise’s only NBA championships to date. He’s not the only Knick alum to return home for Game 2. Hubert Davis, the current head coach of the North Carolina men’s basketball team, played for the Knicks from 1992-1996 after being drafted by New York with the 20th overall pick in 1992.

Bernard King (1982–1987), Larry Johnson (1996–2001), Latrell Sprewell (1999–2003), John Starks (1990–1998), Stephon Marbury (2004–2009), Tim Thomas (2004–2005, 2008–2009), Wilson Chandler (2007–2011) and J. R. Smith (2012–2015) are also in the house.

Musicians Maggie Rogers, Jelly Roll present

Maggie Rogers is a long way from ‘Alaska.’ The Grammy-nominated musician was in attendance for Game 2. The Maryland native has ties to the city. She attended New York University, where returned to serve as a commencement speaker earlier this month. Musicians Questlove and Jelly Roll are also on hand.

Jerry O’Connell, Justin Long snap selfie

Comedian Jerry O’Connell says Game 2 is a ‘MUST WIN’ for the Knicks. He posted a courtside selfie featuring fellow actor Justin Long. The New York native used city lingo to caption the photo: ‘BING BONG.’

How much do NBA courtside seats cost?

If you want to see your favorite basketball team play up close and personal, it’s going to cost you. There are a number of factors that affect ticket prices, including the level of play, teams competing and location.

Do celebrities pay for NBA courtside tickets?

Yes and no.

There are a variety of ways A-listers can snag courtside seats and some methods don’t include opening their wallets. TicketSmarter CEO Jeff Goodman told USA TODAY Sports that celebrities can leverage their connections to get tickets through team owners. Sometimes they are invited by ownership groups or league sponsors, but most times, stars pay their way.

‘Just because they are celebrities doesn’t mean they are getting free tickets,’ Goodman said. ‘In many cases, they are paying just like everybody else if they don’t know someone with the team or with the ownership group.’ Full story on how stars get courtside seats and how much NBA courtside seats cost here.

Comedian Bill Murray sits courtside

Knicks fans are hoping Friday is not Groundhog Day following the team’s Game 1 overtime loss Wednesday. Speaking of ‘Groundhog Day,’ actor Bill Murray is in attendance at Madison Square Garden. The actor is a major Chicago Cubs fan, but we’re guessing Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals was too sweet to pass up. He attended the contest with son Luke Murray, who is an assistant coach for the UConn men’s basketball team. 

Ben Stiller, Tracy Morgan back at the Garden

It’s no “Night at the Museum” for actor Ben Stiller. Instead, the diehard Knicks fan is enjoying a night at Madison Square Garden, where he’s become a mainstay on ‘Celebrity Row.’ Stiller appeared to be pumped for the game. Earlier Friday, he sent three separate tweets that read, ‘LETTTTTTSSSSSS GOOOOOOOOOOOO KNIIIICCCCCKKKKSSSSSSS.’ Another staple, Tracy Morgan, was also front and center for Game 2.

Stream Knicks vs. Pacers Game 2 on Sling

Yes, basketball players get starstruck

And if you’re wondering, basketball players get starstruck too. Ahead of Game 1, TNT commentator Kenny Smith noted that players feel the pressure of competing in front of celebrities, especially in New York and Los Angeles.

‘You cannot glance to the left. You cannot glance to the right. You have to stay focused in, because there’s Spike Lee, Ben Stiller, all the famous rappers that you’ve ever wanted to talk to. They are here,’ Smith said on the ‘Inside the NBA’ pre-game show Wednesday. ‘When you’re in the Eastern Conference finals, you have to knock that out and not pay attention to any of that.’

John McEnroe stops by TNT pregame show

Seven-time major winning tennis star John McEnroe stopped by TNT’s “Inside the NBA” pregame show to promote the upcoming French Open, which will broadcast on TNT for the first time, starting Sunday. McEnroe never won the French Open, but finished as a runner-up to Ivan Lendl in 1984. He predicted Ben Shelton and Francis Tiafoe are the Americans with the best shot at winning at Roland Garros. 

Like Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith, McEnroe turned to broadcasting after his career. 

“I didn’t know that I was going to be great (on television). In fact, it was the last thing I wanted to do. At the end of my career, I was like, ‘Oh my God, I’m going to be a commentator. That’s really pathetic.’ I got an opportunity and got some good advice: ‘be yourself.’”

Draymond Green asked McEnroe for advice on how to control his emotions. McEnroe jokingly replied, “The last person you want to talk to is me.  It’s hopeless for either one of us.”

Jalen Brunson-Mariska Hargitay connection explained

Madison Square Garden’s coveted Celebrity Row would normally leave anyone starstruck, offering up plenty of A-list sightings from Spike Lee to Ben Stiller and Timothee Chalamet. But New York Knicks superstar Jalen Brunson has only been left awestruck by one celebrity. That person is (don-don) Mariska Hargitay, longtime star of the hit TV show “Law & Order: SVU.’

‘I’ve never been like super, super starstruck. I saw her and I was like, ‘Oh, (wow),’’ Brunson said during a May 4 episode of his “The Roommates Show” podcast, which he hosts alongside teammate Josh Hart. ‘Then, the first time we met, it was awesome, we talked and everything.’

A friendship between Brunson and Hargitay has been brewing since he donned royal blue and orange. Why is Hargitay Brunson’s favorite? Click here to see what’s behind the Brunson-Hargitay connection.

What time is Knicks vs. Pacers Game 2?

Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers tips off Friday at 8 p.m. ET.

Knicks vs. Pacers Game 2: How to watch, TV, stream

• Time: 8 p.m. ET
• Location: Madison Square Garden; New York
• TV: TNT
• Stream: Max, Sling

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The picture of the coveted Oklahoma City Eight of the NCAA softball tournament bracket is starting to become clearer.

Behind star pitcher NiJaree Canady, No. 12 Texas Tech on May 23 became the first team to advance to the Women’s College World Series. The Red Raiders upset No. 5 national seed Florida State in a clean two-game sweep.

There remain seven more tickets around the country to be claimed. The next team that can join that can join Texas Tech in the WCWS could be No. 11 Clemson, who took Game 1 of the Austin Super Regional in an upset against No. 6 Texas on May 22.

All spots in the WCWS can be all locked up by the end of Saturday. No. 2 Oklahoma looks to punch its ticket to the WCWS for the ninth consecutive season, in which Patty Gasso’s Sooners will look to win their fifth straight national championship.

Action in Oklahoma City gets underway on Thursday, May 29 with a quadruple header of first-round games at Devon Park.

Here’s what you need to know about who is advancing to the Women’s College World Series, including a first look at the matchups in Oklahoma City and more:

Watch the Women’s College World Series live with Fubo (free trial)

Who’s in Women’s College World Series? Updated NCAA softball bracket

This section will be updated as teams secure their spot in the WCWS after winning their super regional

• No. 5 Texas Tech (Won Tallahassee Super Regional)

Super Regional scores

Norman Super Regional

• Game 1: No. 2 Oklahoma 3, No. 15 Alabama 0

Gainesville Super Regional

• Game 1: No. 3 Florida 6, Georgia 1

Fayetteville Super Regional

• Game 1: Ole Miss 9, No. 4 Arkansas 7

Tallahassee Super Regional

• Game 1: No. 12 Texas Tech 3, No. 5 Florida State 0 (Texas Tech leads 1-0)
• Game 2: No. 12 Texas Tech 2, No. 5 Florida State 1 (Texas Tech wins)

Austin Super Regional

• Game 1: No. 11 Clemson 7, No. 6 Texas 4 (Clemson leads 1-0)
• Game 2: No. 6 Texas 7, No. 11 Clemson 5 (10 innings) (series tied 1-1)

Knoxville Super Regional

• Game 1: Nebraska 5, No. 7 Tennessee 2 (Nebraska leads 1-0)

Greenville Super Regional

• Game 1: No. 8 South Carolina 9, No. 9 UCLA 2

When is the Women’s College World Series?

• Women’s College World Series start date: Thursday, May 29
• Women’s College World Series end date: Thursday, June 5/Friday, June 6

The Women’s College World Series will start on Thursday, May 29 at Devon Park in Oklahoma City and run through either Thursday, June 5 or Friday, June 6, depending on whether the WCWS championship series needs the ‘if necessary’ Game 3 to be played or not.

Women’s College World Series schedule

Here’s a breakdown of the Thursday and Friday schedule for the 2025 WCWS, including first pitch times and TV information:

All times Eastern

Thursday, May 29

• Game 1: | Noon | ESPN
• Game 2: 2:30 p.m. | ESPN
• Game 3: 7 p.m. | ESPN2
• Game 4: 9 p.m. | ESPN2

Friday, May 30

• Game 5: 7 p.m. | ESPN2
• Game 6: 9:30 p.m. | ESPN2

How to watch Women’s College World Series?

• TV channels: ESPN | ESPN2 | ESPNU | ABC
• Streaming: ESPN app | Fubo (free trial)

The entirety of the Women’s College World Series will be nationally televised across the ESPN family of networks: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU and ABC. Streaming options for the WCWS include the ESPN app (with a TV login) and Fubo, which carries the ESPN family of networks and offers a free trial to new subscribers.

When is the NCAA softball tournament?

Here’s the full 2025 NCAA softball tournament schedule:

• Regionals: May 16-18
• Super Regionals: May 22-25
• Women’s College World Series: May 29-June 5/6

Many people believe that the debate over who is the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in the NBA has been settled, with Michael Jordan widely regarded as the top player. While David Falk, Jordan’s longtime agent, agrees that MJ deserves this title, he also shared his thoughts on where LeBron James fits into the conversation.

Falk, who has represented NBA legends such as Jordan, Allen Iverson and Patrick Ewing, shared his insights and advice for aspiring sports industry executives regarding the ever-evolving NBA landscape. He spoke at the Sports Business Journal 4SE conference in Manhattan on May 20.

During the panel, Falk shared his intimate memories of representing Jordan in the early days, both the good and the bad. He specifically recalled having to navigate the scandal that arose after it was revealed that Jordan had paid Slim Bouler tens of thousands of dollars following a gambling incident on the golf course in the early 1990s.

Falk settles the G.O.A.T debate

When asked if he believed Michael Jordan was the Greatest Of All Time, he quickly agreed and mentioned that the number two spot would go to either Kareem Abdul-Jabbar or Kobe Bryant.

When asked if LeBron James fell within the top 10, he answered:

“Probably,” Falk said, before delivering the quote of the day: “I really like LeBron,” he said. “But I think if Jordan had cherry-picked what teams he wanted to be on and two other superstars, he would’ve won 15 championships.”

Tony Reali has had dream jobs before.

As a student at Fordham University in the Bronx, New York, Reali grabbed a student-radio station (WFUV) microphone and covered his beloved Yankees. He became ‘Stat Boy’ on arguably the greatest sports television program ever, ‘Pardon The Interruption.’ Of course, Reali made his own mark on the industry host as host of ‘Around The Horn’ over the past two decades.

But with the ‘ATH’ closing for business May 23, Reali is searching for the next dream job. He hasn’t publicly announced anything yet. But he’s been on the search for a bit since ESPN decided to remove ‘Horn’ from its daily lineup.

People close to Reali, whose contract lasts until August, have asked him what he’s expecting May 24 to be like. He understands he’s given a lot to show – as in his entire heart, every day, for more than 20 years.

“I’m not worried in the least,” Reali told USA TODAY Sports. “I have lots of ideas.’

Reali recognizes he operates from a different playbook than the traditional sportscaster. He’s the type of person who wants to create, invent and ‘cook a little bit with the Reali sauce’ as he put it. He wants his content to be attached to doing the biggest games but also wants to enjoy the modern media landscape that opens up the possibility of ownership over that content.

Reali loves game shows and children and kids shows. That could be a potential avenue.

‘I have a lot of interests, and more energy than interests,’ he said. ‘And I’m happy and I’m hungry.’

As a host, Reali came across as somebody who didn’t interject much opinion and was responsible for keeping the show moving. He wants to show that he can be kind and also mix it up without being a doormat.

The Final Horn: Why sports TV will never be the same without ‘Around the Horn’

Reali had a system of trying to make panelists forget they were about to do live (to tape) TV. The method was inspired by Cesar Millan, of ‘Dog Whisperer’ fame. His other muses were Regis Philbin and Anthony Bourdain, and he combined some of their style with his ‘outer-borough charm.’

“You’ll find out the person who needed to be muted all along was the host,” Reali, 46, said.

Reali floated the idea of obtaining the technology to conduct ‘Around The Horn’ with fans of the show from his home and through a personal website – kind of like a ‘Cameo’ for sports debates.

“I’m so grateful, as I said,’ Reali said. ‘I think everyone needs to recognize things go away because they have to go away, because there’s more to grow. And I’m not going anywhere. My goal is to connect with viewers, as we always have, in an energetic and fun way. More smiles to come.” 

Anyone looking for the next Cam Ward might want to settle in for an extended wait.

To most, the No. 1 pick of the Tennessee Titans in this year’s NFL draft didn’t clear the threshold of a ‘generational’ talent that his future team first floated months before his selection. But his path to the point is a unique one unlikely to be followed anytime soon. Passed over by almost every college as a zero-star quarterback who operated in a Wing-T offense in high school, he climbed from Incarnate Word at the Football Championship Subdivision to Washington State before last year transferring to Miami (Fla.), where he would become arguably the most dynamic passer in college football. At a position where players tend to be known commodities from their early high school years, it’s unlikely that anyone will replicate this meteoric rise right away.

But that doesn’t mean that the outlook at quarterback in any given draft is static. In recent years, several quarterbacks have rocketed into the early first round, with the likes of Jayden Daniels, Michael Penix Jr. and Anthony Richardson among those who changed the conversation about their capabilities thanks to stellar final seasons.

With evaluation efforts now turning toward 2026, there are already several entities who have become fixtures of way-too-early mock drafts, including Penn State’s Drew Allar, LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier and, yes, even Texas’ Arch Manning. But keep an eye on these 10 quarterbacks who could enjoy a significant rise in next year’s draft with a strong showing this upcoming season:

LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina

Maybe it seems like a cheat to include Sellers on this list, as he’s squarely in the conversation of candidates to be the first quarterback taken next spring. To reach that point, however, he’ll need to raise his baseline when operating from the pocket. Nevertheless, his inherent electricity as a dual-threat playmaker makes tolerating his unevenness more than worthwhile. The 6-3, 242-pounder might be one of the most formidable rushing threats behind center from the moment he enters the NFL, and he stands out as perhaps college football’s pre-eminent creator thanks to his ability to deliver strikes to every level of the field. If Sellers can become a more decisive and anticipatory passer while also cleaning up the fumbling issues that dogged his debut starting campaign, he’ll have few peers capable of measuring up to him in the draft.

Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

With Carson Beck (Georgia to Miami) and John Mateer (Washington State to Oklahoma) each headed to new schools, Mendoza was hardly the headliner among quarterbacks in this winter’s transfer portal rush. But his move might be among the most consequential for next year’s draft. In leaving Cal for Indiana, Mendoza departs a program that was sapped of its top talent – the Golden Bears lost five running backs to the transfer portal as well as their No. 1 receiver and tight end, among others – for one infusing its roster with even more promising players. After helping develop another tall, strong-armed transfer in Kurtis Rourke last season, Indiana coach Curt Cignetti should be well-positioned to guide the progress of his new 6-5, 225-pound passer. Mendoza can operate far more quickly and with more precision (68.7% completion rate last season) than Rourke did, but he’ll need to better navigate pressure after taking 41 sacks last season – the most of any returning passer in the Football Bowl Subdivision.

Sawyer Robertson, Baylor

The Mississippi State transfer didn’t receive widespread recognition in 2024, as he only took over as starter three games into the year. Now, however, Robertson could be in line to receive his proper due. The 6-4, 220-pound signal-caller is one of the country’s most precise downfield passers, and his heady play helped propel the Bears to a 6-0 run to end the regular season before the team fell to LSU in the Texas Bowl. His prototypical build and arm strength are major pluses, but his ability to balance an attacking mentality while infrequently putting the ball in harm’s way reveals that he’s more than merely just a package of traits. And with enough athleticism to escape the pocket and extend plays, he looks like exactly the kind of quarterback who can raise his profile significantly with another impressive campaign.

Eli Holstein, Pitt

After leaving Alabama following just one season spent redshirting, the former four-star recruit acclimated nicely to his new setting, throwing for 15 touchdowns in his first five games. The Panthers’ up-tempo offense under new coordinator Kade Bell hit a midseason snag, however, with the team dropping its final six games after starting 7-0. Holstein’s health played a major factor in that unraveling; the 6-4, 225-pounder missed almost the entirety of Pitt’s final four contests due to leg and head injuries. With ample arm strength to push the ball downfield, the redshirt sophomore should have little trouble catching scouts’ eyes, whether for the 2026 draft or beyond. Holstein will need to stay healthy and prove he can hold up against top competition after feasting on the leaner part of last year’s schedule, but if he’s afforded better protection along with more playmaking support at the skill positions, he could resume his ascent.

Nico Iamaleava, UCLA

True scorched-earth scenarios are few and far between in the NFL draft – at least for players of a certain level of ability. That’s the silver lining for Iamaleava as he navigates the fallout from his unceremonious split with Tennessee following a practice no-show and widespread reports of a clash over name, image and likeness pay. The 6-6, 215-pound passer still has considerable work to do to deliver on the immense potential he teased as the former No. 2 overall recruit who built an immense buzz before even taking the field. But if he can elevate an offense that ranked in the bottom 10 in the FBS for scoring (18.4 points per game), Iamaleava can put the focus back on his physical tools and quiet – at least temporarily – the discussion about off-field matters.

Dante Moore, Oregon

Iamaleava isn’t the only former five-star quarterback from the 2023 recruiting class in need of a do-over. Moore joined the Ducks last year after an inauspicious freshman campaign at UCLA in which he completed just 53.5% of his passes and threw for 11 touchdowns with nine interceptions. After sitting for a season, he’ll take over an offense that boasted Heisman Trophy finalists in each of the last two years with Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel – who were both fellow transfers as well. Moore will have to reaffirm the poise and precision that made him such a highly sought-after recruit, but Oregon should equip him with the proper schematic and personnel support to allow him to flourish.

Miller Moss, Louisville

Few players in the transfer portal era have exhibited the patience of Moss, who spent three years as a backup before getting his shot to become the starter at USC. After setting a Holiday Bowl record with six touchdown passes in place of Caleb Williams and then opening last season with a dazzling win over LSU, everything seemed to be falling into place for him to be Lincoln Riley’s next prized passer. But Moss was benched after nine games, and now he’s taking over for the team he torched in his first career start. No one will confuse the 6-1, 205-pounder with Tyler Shough, the 6-5, 219-pound signal-caller who became a second-round draft pick – and potential rookie starter for the New Orleans Saints – thanks to his career resurgence with the Cardinals in 2024. But in teaming up with one of college football’s most acclaimed offensive minds in coach Jeff Brohm, Moss could be poised to follow his predecessor’s path with a reset that allows him to get his development back on track.

Austin Simmons, Mississippi

Placement on this list might seem far-fetched given that Simmons has yet to make a single start in his career. But after skipping two grades in high school and graduating from Mississippi earlier this month at 19, the 6-4, 215-pound lefty – who also was a relief pitcher for the school last year before deciding to focus on football – is a clear outlier. Simmons gave a glimpse of his capabilities when he stepped in temporarily for injured starter Jaxson Dart to complete five of six passes for 64 yards in the Rebels’ upset win over Georgia last year. Now, he’ll be counted on to keep Lane Kiffin’s high-powered offense running strong after Dart’s handle on the system helped him become a first-round pick. Given his inexperience and age, Simmons might be a name to watch further down the line. But if he proves himself comfortable against top competition, he’s shown he has no problem operating ahead of schedule.

Taylen Green, Arkansas

It doesn’t require a deep dive to see the pro potential of a 6-6, 230-pound passer who ran for more than 600 yards last season. Still, despite starting two years at Boise State and making the jump to Arkansas last season, Green has yet to put everything together as a passer, with his ball placement, pocket awareness (32 sacks taken last season) and decision-making all requiring refinement. But between his superlative raw arm strength and rare running ability, he can tax defenses in a manner that few other signal-callers can. If Green overcomes an exceedingly difficult schedule and an overhauled receiving corps that lost go-to target Andrew Armstrong, he’ll pique plenty of teams’ interests, at least as a developmental prospect.

Aidan Chiles, Michigan State

In following coach Jonathan Smith from Oregon State to Michigan State in December 2023, Chiles gave the Spartans some much-needed hope as they looked to turn the page on the Mel Tucker era. Yet nothing came easily to a program stuck in transition, and the former four-star recruit threw for just 13 touchdowns with 11 interceptions as his team stumbled to a 5-7 mark. Tamping down on his turnover-prone ways will be a vital step in Chiles’ development this season. But with his often dazzling deep balls and abundant athleticism, the 6-3, 217-pounder will capture plenty of attention if he can boost his efficiency and consistency.

Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Ben Cherington shot down the notion that the team would consider trading reigning NL Rookie of the Year winner Paul Skenes.

“It’s not part of the conversation at all,” Cherington told reporters.

Skenes, the first overall pick in 2023, quickly became one of the most dominant starting pitchers in baseball and finished runner-up in Cy Young voting last season, striking out 170 batters with a 1.96 ERA in 23 starts.

For years, the Pittsburgh organization has drawn ire from around baseball for refusing to reinvest money on the field, ranking 26th of 30 teams with a $87,645,246 payroll this season. In recent weeks, there have been calls from fans and pundits for the Pirates to trade their best player – since there’s virtually no chance they’ll sign him when he’s eligible for free agency after the 2029 season.

The Pirates are in last place in the NL Central with a 17-34 record, already 13½ games behind the first-place Chicago Cubs and have not reached the postseason since 2015.

“We’ve just got to get better,” Cherington said. “Let’s play better baseball, and that’s going to lead to winning more games. Then, let’s wake up and see where that takes us when we get to July.”

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The MVP is rolling. The second star is producing. Role players are excelling, and the Oklahoma City Thunder are two victories from their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012.

The Thunder toppled the Minnesota Timberwolves 118-103 in Game 2 Thursday for a 2-0 series lead.

It’s just two games, and Minnesota has yet to play at home, but it’s a lopsided series with the Thunder’s strengths shining and the Timberwolves’ flaws exposed.

Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who won his first MVP Wednesday, had 38 points, eight assists, three rebounds and three steals, and All-Star Jalen Williams was one of three Thunder players with at least 20 points.

Here are the winners and losers from Game 2 of Timberwolves vs. Thunder in the Western Conference finals:

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Game 2 winners

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The MVP did something that no other player in franchise history has accomplished. Not Kevin Durant. Not Russell Westbrook. Not James Harden. He scored at least 30 points in five consecutive playoff games – and there was symmetry to his 38 points – 19 in the first half, 19 in the second half; eight points in the first quarter, eight points in the fourth quarter, 11 points in the second quarter, 11 points in the third quarter.

The Timberwolves had no answers for Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 13 of his points at the free throw line. He had 22 points inside the 3-point line including 14 in the paint. His eight assists and three steals were part of the Thunder’s two-way dominance.

Everyone knows how Gilgeous-Alexander operates, and he remains difficult to stop. Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels was so frustrated, he shoved Gilgeous-Alexander, resulting in a flagrant foul one in the fourth quarter.

Jalen Williams

You could see Williams’ start taking shape last season, and the third-year forward from Santa Clara became an All-Star for the first time this season. He’s another one of the Thunder’s two-way performers.

He had 26 points on 12-for-20 shooting, 10 rebounds, five assists and one steal. Through two games, he’s averaging 22.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 3.0 steals.

Chet Holmgren

Holmgren sustained a hip fracture in the 10th game of the season and missed the next three months. The 7-footer returned in February and has found his spot in the starting lineup.

Holmgren scored 22 points in Game 2 and was 7-for-10 shooting in the paint.

Oklahoma City’s defense

Lu Dort might be easy to overlook, but he was fantastic in Game 2 with nine points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals – and the Thunder outscored the Timberwolves by 29 points in Dort’s 35 minutes on the court.

Dort was named first-team All-Defense on Thursday (Jalen Williams made the second team) and is a major reason the Thunder had the top-ranked defense during the regular season.

Minnesota is shooting 38.2% from the field and averaging 95.5 points in the series. The Thunder are protecting the paint and forcing the Timberwolves to score from the perimeter.

Anthony Edwards

Edwards looked for his shot way more in Game 2 than he did in Game 1, and it resulted in a 32-point performance. He was just 1-for-9 on 3s but also had nine rebounds and six assists. That’s the Edwards the Timberwolves need – with a few more made 3s and more scoring help from his teammates.

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Game 2 losers

Anthony Edwards’ postgame media availability

A day after the NBA fined Edwards $50,000 for “using profane language during a media interview” in the Game 1 postgame news conference, he declined to speak to reporters after Minnesota’s Game 2 loss. He may have been bothered by the fine, but he also left his teammates to answer questions about another unsatisfactory performance. Not a great look for a team leader.

Julius Randle’s offense

Before Game 2, the Timberwolves forward had scored at least 24 points in five consecutive games, including a triple-double against Golden State in the West semifinals. The offense vanished in Game 2. Randle was 2-for-11 for six points and did not play in the fourth quarter.

Timberwolves’ 3-point shooting

Minnesota is shooting 28.9% on 3s in the series, and while it has missed open shots, Oklahoma City’s defense has played a role, too. The Timberwolves missed 28 3s in Game 2 and 36 in Game 1, and they’re not converting enough shots inside the 3-point line.

From 3 in the series:

• Naz Reid is 0-for-12
• Mike Conley 2-for-9
• Donte DiVincenzo 5-for-18
• Anthony Edwards 4-for-17

Minnesota’s ball security

The Timberwolves committed 14 turnovers that led to 22 Thunder points in Game 2 – which followed 19 turnovers that led to 31 points in Game 1.

Oklahoma City has outscored Minnesota 53-20 in points off turnovers in the two games. In series that are won in both big and small ways, the Timberwolves are throwing away the basketball and their chances to win the series.

Follow NBA reporter Jeff Zillgitt on social media @JeffZillgitt